Candida, a yeast-like fungus, can infect the mouth, vagina, urinary tract, skin or stomach. Symptoms of candidiasis include white patches in the mouth or throat, cracks at the corners of the mouth, skin rashes and blisters, vaginal itching and white vaginal discharge that resembles cottage cheese. Candida overgrowth can result from taking certain medications, pregnancy, obesity, bacterial infections or a weakened immune system. Several herbs may help treat candida, though they should be used only under a doctor's supervision.
Pau D'Arco
Pau d'arco bark, the inner bark harvested from the South American tree, has anti-fungal properties that may help treat candida infections. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking the herb as a tea. To make, steep 2 tbsp. of dried pau d'arco bark in 1 quart boiling water for 15 to 20 minutes. Strain the herbs from the liquid and sweeten with honey or lemon if desired. Drink 3 to 6 cups per day or use as a vaginal douche, depending on the location of the infection.
Geranium
Geranium oil may help treat vaginal candidiasis, according to a 2008 study published in the Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin. In the study, the application of geranium oil combined with vaginal washing in mice significantly lowered the number of candida cells present, suppressed the growth of candida cells and reduced local inflammation. To use at home, combine 6 to 8 drops pure geranium essential oil with 1 ounce natural cultured yogurt, apply directly to the affected area, and wash the area several times a day for the best results.
Pomegranate
A natural anti-fungal agent, pomegranate may help treat candidosis associated with denture stomatitis, according to a 2003 study published in the scientific journal Mycoses. In the study, patients were treated with a topical gel containing pomegranate extract three times a day for 15 days. After the treatment, patients were examined and almost all saw a significant reduction in the presence of candida yeast cells. Researchers concluded that pomegranate gel yields positive results in the treatment of candidosis caused by denture stomatitis.
Goldenrod
The German Commission E, the group of botanical medicine experts that advises the country's government about herbal treatments, endorses the use of goldenrod for treating yeast infections. In his book "The Green Pharmacy," herbalist James A. Duke suggests using goldenrod to treat candida. The herb contains ester saponins, which may combat candida organisms. Use goldenrod tea as an astringent beverage or vaginal douche. To make, steep 2 tsp. dried goldenrod in 1 cup boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes, and then strain.
Garlic
Asa Hershoff, author of "Herbal Remedies," recommends using garlic to treat candida infections. The herb contains powerful anti-fungal and antibacterial properties, which may be beneficial for chronic infections, and it rapidly destroys yeast. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests consuming one clove of fresh garlic or one tablet containing 4,000 to 5,000 mcg of allicin daily to combat candida.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Candidiasis
- PubMed.gov: Protective Activity of Geranium Oil and its Component, Geraniol, in Combination with Vaginal Washing Against Vaginal Candidiasis in Mice
- PubMed.gov: Use of Punica Granatum as an Antifungal Agent Against Candidosis Associated With Denture Stomatitis
- "The Green Pharmacy"; James A. Duke; 1998
- "Herbal Remedies: A Quick and Easy Guide to Common Disorders and Their Herbal Remedies"; Asa Hershoff; 2001
